Looking into How Artificial Intelligence Supports Operational Improvements in Southeast Asia’s Expanding Enterprises: Evidence from Case Studies

This study looks at how intelligent automation can improve daily operations for growing businesses in ASEAN. It focuses on three small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from retail (Malaysia), food service (Singapore), and logistics (Indonesia), each using different AI tools such as inventory tracking systems, chatbots, and route planning software. The data came from interviews, internal documents, and other materials. The results suggest, in practice, AI tools allowed each company to better manage stock levels, respond to customer needs, and organize deliveries with fewer delays. But the journey wasn’t without issues—staff hesitation and system integration problems were common, often tied to how ready and digitally mature each firm was. This research helps explain how SMEs in developing regions are using AI and stresses the need for industry-specific tools. It also offers takeaways for business owners, tech creators, and policymakers working to support digital change where resources are limited.